Measuring nonprofit success requires analyzing many metrics

February 5, 2014

Measuring nonprofit success requires analyzing many metrics

While all companies measure success in multiple ways, profits tend to be the determining factor. Most of the actions of a for-profit company are carried out to make more money. Improving customer satisfaction and creating innovative new products lead to greater profits – they are tools for success. The nice thing about measuring success with dollars and cents is it provides a set of numbers that can be used as metrics.

For nonprofit organizations, success or failure is far more subjective. While profits are obviously not the measure of success, the need to keep the organization viable is still a determining factor. Serving the designated community or industry cannot be done without successful funding. For this reason, it is very important that nonprofits set clear goals when determining what constitutes acceptable service in their area.

How to measure success when profit isn't applicable
Success and failure should be measured by looking at the organization as a whole. When analyzing metrics, look to see how they compliment one another:

  • Fundraising goals: A viable nonprofit sets very specific fundraising goals at the beginning of the year. The goals are based on realistic estimates of what the organizations can bring in and how much money is needed to function and grow. Even if fundraising came up a little short, consider it a success if you were still able to meet demand for service.
  • Charity provided: For nonprofits that provide services to the less fortunate, it can be difficult to determine if the job is getting done. Should a food shelter wipe out world hunger, or merely provide a low-cost option for families that are experiencing a rough time financially? Like fundraising goals, service goals should be realistic.
  • Growth: An increase in size is not always a measure of success for a nonprofit. If current levels of service are adequate, nonprofits shouldn't feel compelled to spend money. Shore up reserves for when times are lean or begin saving for needed costs down the road, such as a new building or equipment.

Each year, how a nonprofit measures success will depend on the goals of board members and employees. The balance sheet alone cannot determine if an organization was an asset to the community that it serves. Success can be measured in many ways, only individuals within the organization can determine if their nonprofit is operating to the best of its ability.

single-post10249

Ready to chat?
Get in touch today to request a no-obligation savings evaluation.

Testimonials

Working with Marshal Whittey at First Nonprofit has been a great experience. He handles our request as a priority and goes above and beyond to resolve any issues we have in a timely manner. Marshall follows through to the end and ensures our needs are met. He has been a great resource for LSC and our “go to” for any tax questions we may have. With LSC transitioning several facilities into one federal tax identification number, First Nonprofit was able to assist and provide guidance with best practices resolving claims to each entity. Additionally First Nonprofit provided knowledge (information materials) and one on one training to HRS group with best practices to handle claims state adjudicated, fraudulent claims, and appeals. And processing information in the First Nonprofit [unemployment claims] system allows for timely information can be collected.

Lutheran Services Carolinas, Salisbury, NC

My experience with FNP has been wonderful. Unemployment in general is quite confusing and FNP has simplified the process for us. Everyone we have reached out to or worked with has been very helpful and follows up to be sure we understand the information. I am so happy we made the switch to FNP!

Stone Valley Community Charter School, Huntingdon, PA

First Nonprofit smoothed the unemployment perils for our organization during Covid. Without the ability to cap our UI exposure, we would not have been able to weather the storm. The program worked perfectly and we have come out of the pandemic ready to forge on. Thanks FNP!

Jewish Silicon Valley, Los Gatos, CA

My experience with the FNP has been fantastic. The idea of setting funds aside for the unemployment tax liability is a bedrock for nonprofit organizations like mine, namely ASHBA; what is even more advantageous is having the FNP as a custodian of those funds. 100% recommended!

American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association, Inc., Lexington, KY

I would like to comment on my experience with FNP….to date our District has saved $1,000’s of dollars by being enrolled in the First Nonprofit program. My only regret is that we did not know about this method of paying unemployment tax years ago….as I had figured about five years

ago, had we enrolled 15-20 years ago, we could have saved our small school district upwards of $500,000 in payments to IDES. Also we would have had a pretty hefty sum of money in our Reserve Account. Thankfully I attended a workshop hosted by First Nonprofit back in 2015 which got the ball rolling!

Beardstown Community Unit School District 15, Beardstown, IL

I have worked with the First Non-Profit Team for many years, and I appreciate the quick response and care that Cecilia and the team provides anytime I have questions. While there are other providers that may provide like services, First Nonprofit will always be my first choice! I appreciate you!

Innovative Services, Inc., Green Bay, WI

First Nonprofit has been easy to work with and makes the administrative process easier and smoother. We enjoy working with you.

Visually Impaired Preschool Services, Louisville, KY

Luckily for us, our interactions regarding any issues with staffing has been very minimal! I can say that all other interactions with regards to billing, 941 reporting, etc. have been extremely pleasant, accommodating and easy to work with. Kim Ghanayem is always prompt, professional and friendly. Thank you so much!

Neurologic Music Therapy Services of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ